Enhancing Emotional Understanding and Resilience in Young Minds
Mentalization-Based Therapy for Children is an essential resource for therapists, counsellors, and mental health practitioners working with young clients. Grounded in the core principles of MBT, this practical guide explains how to help children develop a better understanding of their own and others' thoughts, feelings, and behaviours-fostering emotional regulation, empathy, and stronger relationships.
Drawing on evidence-based techniques and case examples, this book translates the complexities of MBT into accessible, child-focused interventions. Whether you work in schools, clinics, or private practice, this guide offers clear, adaptable strategies for integrating MBT into therapeutic work with children aged 5-12.
Inside, you'll learn:
The fundamentals of mentalization and its importance in child development
How to assess a child's capacity for mentalization
Practical session plans and intervention techniques
Strategies for working with parents, carers, and families
Ways to address common challenges such as anxiety, trauma, and behavioural issues
Guidance for tailoring MBT to diverse cultural and developmental contexts
Creative tools-stories, games, and play-based activities-to make MBT engaging for children
Combining theory, research, and hands-on tools, Mentalization-Based Therapy for Children equips professionals with the skills to nurture emotional insight, resilience, and interpersonal growth in young clients.
Support healthy emotional development-one conversation at a time.